Lack of water hampering the development of Mandeville

Residents of Mandeville and surrounding areas have long been told that a major reason for the lack of development in the town is due mainly to an inability to access funding, but now another reason has been added to a seemingly growing list.

At a recent meeting held by the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, in association with the Manchester Municipal Corporation, it was reported that the stunted growth of the town is as a result of a lack of water.

"We are at a point now where we are looking at the current reality of the parish and we have come to the conclusion that Manchester will not necessarily grow neither physically nor economically ... the biggest hindrance to growth and development in the parish is a lack of water," revealed Local development economic officer at the Municipal Corporation, Angela Edwards.

"There is a shortfall of $8 million gallons per day and over 50 per cent of the population is without piped water," she highlighted.

Edwards said the council has reached out to the National Water Commission and a plan to solve this problem has been created. However, there is no timeline for the implementation of this plan.

Meanwhile, Mayor of Mandeville Donovan Mitchell said the council has for a number of years created innovative strategies for transformation; however, the success of most, if not all, these plans is dependent on a public-private partnership.

"...We will be looking at restoring accountability and public trust through an open, transparent and responsive municipality, we are improving infrastructure by developing and maintaining roads and drainage, creating a safer and more vibrant town centre, and creating health wellness and cultural opportunities for our youth, families and senior citizens," said Mitchell.

He added: "We want to utilise the corporation's lands for affordable housing and commercial space...We are moving forward, we need to work together, trust each other, examine best practices, reach outside our borders and collaborate," Mitchell noted.